Phuket Authority
Racha Island: snorkelling, diving and beaches from Phuket
Racha Island: snorkelling, diving and beaches from Phuket

Racha Island: snorkelling, diving and beaches from Phuket

Updated on October 19, 2026

The Racha Islands (Raya in Thai) are two islets south of Phuket: Racha Yai, the larger, with its white-sand bays and very clear water, and Racha Noi, farther out and wilder, visited mostly by divers. From Phuket you go for the day by speedboat or catamaran, to swim, snorkel and enjoy the beach. The prices below are ranges found with operators and on booking sites in October 2026: confirm the price and what it includes before booking.

Highlights

Siam Bay on Racha Yai

Siam Bay on Racha Yai

A crescent of white sand between two wooded headlands, with a pier and boats at anchor. It is where day trips arrive and the main swimming spot.

Clear water for snorkelling

Clear water for snorkelling

The reefs off Racha Yai offer very clear water and colourful fish. Trips usually combine one or two snorkel stops with beach time, with a Thai buffet lunch in the offers consulted.

Practical info

Tips

  • A shared day trip to Racha (sometimes combined with Coral Island) is listed from about 1,300 to 2,000 THB per adult, with mask, snorkel and lunch in several offers; extras and any fees vary. For diving, one centre offers two dives for about 3,200 THB for certified divers and about 2,000 THB for non-divers who snorkel. A private boat costs far more (from about 35,000 THB according to one charter offer). Bring reef-friendly sunscreen, a towel, a hat and seasickness tablets; the beach is very busy in the middle of the day.

How to get there

By boat from Phuket (Chalong pier or nearby), about 30 to 40 minutes by speedboat according to one operator. Offers often include hotel pick-up (Patong, Karon, Kata, Kamala…).

Opening hours

Best: November to April, in the morning
Day trip; morning departure and late-afternoon return depending on the operator (exact times given when you book)

Our guides that feature it

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